What should you do if your car starts to skid on a slippery road?

When your car starts to skid on a slippery road, the most effective response is to let off the gas, avoid using the brakes, and turn the wheels in the same direction as the skid. This technique allows you to regain control of the vehicle.

When a skid occurs, it typically means that your tires have lost traction. Applying the brakes can worsen the situation by causing further loss of control, potentially leading to a spin. By steering into the direction of the skid, you help realign the tires with the direction of travel, which can help restore traction and stabilize the vehicle. This reaction is often referred to as "steering into the skid."

In situations involving slippery conditions, understanding how to manage your vehicle's response is critical for safety, particularly as many drivers may instinctively attempt to brake or steer against the skid, both of which can exacerbate the loss of control.